Cuts will vary depending on the procedure. For example, a magnetic image (MRI) of the brain that cost $6,143 under the old system will be 70 percent less at $1,810. A diagnostic colonoscopy used to be billed at $2,203 but is now $1,518 (31 percent less) under the new policy, which took effect Jan. 1.

Depending on an insurance plan’s contract with Swedish, consumers could end up paying different rates from what Swedish bills in these examples. People paying out of pocket could see even lower prices.

The cuts won’t apply to inpatient care, including births and other hospitalizations.

It remains unclear if consumers will feel the relief: Swedish is reducing what it charges for different services, but it will be up to insurance companies to decide whether to pass on the savings to customers.

However, patients who pay out of pocket will immediately feel the impact of the lower rates.

Officials say the cuts to outpatient charges won’t affect the quality of care.

This change is just the latest the Seattle-based hospital system has made to adapt to changes that have been rocking the health industry since the Affordable Care Act passed in 2010.

Swedish made news in December when it revealed that it would change the way it pays doctors by making 25 percent of their compensation directly determined by performance and outcomes, instead of the traditional fee-for-service system.